Bwf Opposes Wembley 2012 Move

The Badminton World Federation has opposed the move to stage the sport’s competitions during the London 2012 Olympics at Wembley Arena, saying it is too far from the central Olympic site in east London.

Last week the International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved a plan to move the badminton events to Wembley Arena as part of cost-cutting measures put forward by the London 2012 organising committee (LOCOG).

However the Badminton World Federation has said it did not want the sport to be in a ‘stand alone’ west London venue.

It said: ‘We are of the opinion that this will affect the Olympic experience for players and spectators.’

Last week the IOC approved holding badminton and rhythmic gymnastics events at Wembley Arena instead of a £40m temporary venue that had been planned for Greenwich.

Wembley Arena was supported by London Mayor Boris Johnson and LOCOG.

LOCOG chairman Sebastian Coe said: ‘It’s a combination of cost – everyone recognises the world has changed dramatically since when we bid – but it’s also about legacy and athlete experience.’

But Badminton World Federation (BWF) President Dr Kang Young Joong said: ‘The Olympic Games is the pinnacle of sporting achievement and the BWF owes our athletes and its members the responsibility to showcase badminton to the media and the world in the best possible way.’

The BWF said it would ‘vigorously engage’ in venue negotiations with the IOC and hoped to find a solution at its next board meeting in March.